Update from Lek

From Steve:

We have thoroughly enjoyed the trip, but we are anxious to come home. Our digs are relatively comfortable at the Hilton but it will be a challenge to get through the weekend.

We are scheduled to go the Horizon House today at 4:00 p.m. for the traditional coffee ceremony. This event is one last chance for the families to be together and for the Wide Horizon staff (including Dr. Tsegeye and his minions) to say goodbye. The folks here are truly kind and caring, but they are somewhat unfamiliar with the words "plan" or "agenda." Consequently, each day has a vague rhythm to it and usually includes something official to do, but determining when such things will occur is an art more than a science.

We are quite a picture for the locals as we walk aorund with Abera. Most folks (particularly the females, yes, some things transcend cultural differences) are drawn to him. His eyelashes are so pretty that we have had the gender question several times. He has managed not to be offended by such inquiries.

Yesterday we went to the market. Jen did some heavy duty bargaining and we came away with lots of loot. I passed the time by getting my torn boat shoes shined (they are persistent) and chatting with a Rasta originally from Hawaii. He was trying to sell me his book -- actually just a translation of Bob Marley's songs. I would have been glad to buy a biography or a history on the Rastafarian movement, but I could not shell out hard earned dough for song lyrics, not even for Marley. Moreover, didn't Bob sing his songs in English.

We are going to get ready for the big Coffee Ceremony. We miss you all and cannot wait to get back.